MUMBAI: Raqesh Bapat and Shamita Shetty had met inside Karan Johar-hosted Bigg Boss OTT. Even during Shamita’s stint in Salman Khan hosted Bigg Boss 15, Raqesh had cheered for her and supported her from outside. Their fans love their chemistry and lovingly called them “ShaRa.” However, in a recent interview, Raqesh spoke about his relationship with Shamita Shetty and called her a “dear friend.” Read on for excerpts.

You’ve been staying in Pune, your hometown. Does the shuttling between Mumbai and Pune get taxing?

"Beyond work, I don’t like to hang around in Mumbai. I seldom go to events and parties in Mumbai."

Although the two of you denied all the rumours on social media, what’s the equation between you and Shamita?

"I’ll tell you this, it’s all about the energy two people carry with each other. That has to be worked on for anything to happen. We are in a happy zone; she is a dear friend. Friendship has to be so strong that nothing else can affect it. She is a pure soul. I value people who are honest."

You basically mean the relationship is going strong?

"Of course."

What phase of relationship are you two in, currently?

'I would not name it a relationship. It’s a bond."

Do you not want to talk about your personal life?

"I don’t want to talk about it. If there is any kind of progression people will get to know. It is something solid is all I can say."

A few days back, Shamita Shetty and Raqesh Bapat were papped in the city as they stepped out for dinner. Moreover, Raqesh and Shamita had celebrated Holika Dahan together. They had also sent out good wishes on Holi to fans with a video. The video was posted by Raqesh on his Instagram handle. He had joined Shamita and her sister Shilpa Shetty Kundra at her place for Holika Dahan.

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Credits: Hindustan Times